Windows are not only used to regulate the indoor temperature, let in natural sunlight and block outdoor noises from coming inside. They can also be used to create a multitude of decorative designs. The trick is knowing how to use them to their best advantage.
The window itself can be aesthetically pleasing, through its shape (circle, half-moon, quarter-moon, octagon, oval), its material (wood, PVC, metal), its glass (frosted, stained) and its coverings (curtains, textiles, blinds, sheer fabrics, shutters).
The French door fits into an interior wall. It provides more light to a room or adds a beautiful element to the decor, acting as an interior window. It can also slide into an exterior wall, which we, Canadians, call the patio-door.
The most overlooked window is the wall-to-wall fenestration. The glass window extends from one extremity to the next, from top to bottom or takes up the top two-thirds of a wall. There are many practical uses for this window: a maximum of natural lighting, lower energy costs, massive aeration when needed, or just for fun.
Full-width fenestration opens up a whole new decorative space. It is most enjoyable when overlooking a garden, a woodland, a park, an extraordinary landscape design or even a neighbouring property with a land covered in lush vegetation. This space, which is a true living picture, is renewed every season. It is as though a new room is added to the home.
The decorative power of a window can often be mobile. Place a screen made of different coloured metal plates in front of a window and you will create beautiful light and colour effects, while still enjoying your privacy. Shutters or a perforated screen, made of wood, will send luminous geometrical designs on the floor or wall. Shimmering silk window coverings will diffuse a soft light into the home.
Crystal objects, such as gemstones, chandeliers, trinkets or dishes, placed randomly on the window sill will make a room sparkle, especially if the sun is shining brightly inside.
Daylight will make a glazed floor, metallic or lacquered furniture, coloured tiles or stained glass shine and create a play of light and shadow on a wooden surface.
At the right time of day, the moment that best suits you, the sunlight will make a charming glass lantern, made of finely crafted metal, shine. It will illuminate the expensive vase or the work of art close by, or the Moroccan tea glasses conveniently placed on the shelves.
In the bathroom, the window facing south allows warm sunlight spill into the bathtub right below.
In the bedroom, the window placed over the headboard sheds light on a veil that unfurls at the foot of the bed.
Add extra lighting in front of the window, and even around it, such as candles or wall sconces, and you will give way to a myriad of lights at the most desired moment.
In short, windows can create so many different effects of light and shadow by strategically placing objects indoors.
Images: iStock.com
